Easy Mini Shepherds Pies

Name: Easy Mini Shepherds Pies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef or lamb; 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup peas; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup beef broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups mashed potatoes; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the deliciousness of comfort food with these Easy Mini Shepherds Pies. These individual-sized pies are filled with savory ground meat and vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked until golden brown. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun twist at your next gathering, these mini shepherds pies are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-13T18:47:02.458Z

These Easy Mini Shepherds Pies offer a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Each pie is just the right size and packs in all the flavors you love.

        Why You’ll Love These Mini Pies
        Individual servings make them perfect for gatherings.
Comforting and delicious flavor.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables.

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Easy Mini Shepherds Pies are versatile enough to serve at various events, whether it's a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends. Their individual portions make them ideal for parties, allowing guests to enjoy a hearty meal without the need for serving dishes. They're easy to grab and savor, perfect for mingling and socializing.

Additionally, their comforting flavors make them a wonderful option for colder months or any time you crave something warm and fulfilling. You can pair them with a fresh salad for a balanced meal or serve them as a delicious party appetizer that keeps the good times rolling.

Customization Options

One of the best things about these mini pies is how easy they are to customize. You can swap out the ground beef or lamb for turkey or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian-friendly version. This allows you to cater to various dietary preferences while maintaining the delightful essence of the dish.

Furthermore, feel free to get creative with the vegetables! Incorporate bell peppers, corn, or even spinach to add more color and nutrition. Mixing and matching ingredients not only enhances the flavors, but it also makes these pies fun to prepare and share with loved ones.

Tips for Perfect Mini Pies

To achieve the best flavor, allow your filling to simmer longer than the recommended time if you have the chance. This intensifies the flavors and results in a richer filling. Additionally, ensure that your mashed potatoes are creamy and well-seasoned before topping the pies; this makes a significant difference in overall taste.

Another tip is to cover the pies with foil during the first half of baking to prevent the tops from over-browning. This technique allows the filling to heat through without burning the potatoes, giving you a perfectly baked dish every time.

Ingredients

For the Filling

1 lb ground beef or lamb
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup peas
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

2 cups mashed potatoes
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Feel free to add other vegetables or spices based on your preference!

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, cook the onions and garlic until soft. Add the ground meat, cooking until browned. Stir in carrots, peas, tomato paste, and beef broth.

Season with salt and pepper and let simmer for about 10 minutes.

Assemble the Pies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In individual pie dishes, layer the meat filling, then top with mashed potatoes. Add shredded cheese on top if desired.

Bake the Pies

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Mini Shepherds Pies ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pies, then store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just ensure that you cover them well to maintain freshness.

Can these pies be frozen? Yes, under the right conditions. Once assembled, you can freeze the mini shepherds pies before baking. When you're ready to eat, simply bake them from frozen, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they are heated through.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to maintain their crisp topping.

You can also microwave them if you're in a hurry. Just be cautious, as microwaving may result in a softer topping. For the best experience, reheating in the oven really brings back that fresh-baked taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for a lighter option.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.